Adaptable bi-directional range-of-motion exercise apparatus providing repose configuration

ABSTRACT

A resistance exercise apparatus is provided which includes structures for receiving a body extremity of a user, the means for receiving a body extremity subject to a force provided by the body extremity, structures for maintaining the means for receiving a body extremity in a predefined plane during movement; and resistance providing devices to impose resistance against the movement of the body extremity. Versions of the apparatus may positioned on a floor, on a wall, or be free standing. Various embodiments of the invention are particularly suited to provide range-of-motion exercises for legs, arms, and hands of the user for both recreational strengthening and physical therapy applications.

BACKGROUND

1. The Field of the Invention

This invention relates generally to exercise apparatus and morespecifically to a novel apparatus for exercising the human body whichprovides beneficial range-of-motion exercises.

2. The Background Art

Increasingly, individuals and groups are becoming conscientious ofexercising and other health related habits, and making substantialefforts to improve the same. Responsive to this increased awareness, thehealth and physical fitness industries have grown tremendously in thelast several years. New exercise products are being introducedcontinuously.

Virtually all resistance-type exercise devices and apparatus use one ofthree basic resistance principles. The first of these is isometrics,which is a static form of exercise wherein the joints are moved at aconstant speed (0 degrees per second) against a constant resistance,that is, with no observable joint movement. For example, pushing thepalms of the hands against one another is an isometric exercise. Studiesindicate that isometric exercise increases strength primarily at thespecific angle assumed by the joint when force is applied.

The second form of resistance is isotonics and involves movement of ajoint throughout a range-of-motion against a constant resistance. Thebest example of isotonic exercise is the use of barbells or similar freeweights. With traditional isotonics, there is no way to accommodate forbiomechanical leverage changes that increase and decrease muscularefficiency throughout the range-of-motion. Therefore, the dynamicallycontracting muscle is only loaded maximally at its weakest point in therange-of-motion.

The third basic type of resistance exercise is isokinetics and entailsexercise performed at a constant speed with totally accommodatingresistance throughout the entire range-of-motion. This form of exerciserequires specially designed, complex, and expensive equipment, andusually requires constant supervision by a educated trainer. Therefore,exercise apparatus utilizing the principle of isokinetics are generallynot well suited to the individual who may wish to exercise within theconfines of his own home or who cannot afford the great expense of suchapparatus.

While a great number of exercise devices and apparatus are known whichutilize either the isometric or isotonic method of exercise, there doesnot appear to be any apparatus in the exercise or therapy field whichcombines these two principles. A great advantage would be gainedthereby, since both of these principles have distinct advantages. Forexample, isometric exercises provide the following important advantages:less joint irritation since there is no joint motion, increase of staticmuscular strength, reduction in swelling of joints, and isometricexercises can be performed anywhere in relatively short periods of time.

Similarly, some of the advantages of isotonic exercises are: readyavailability, provides motivation by achievement (the user is able tolift more weight as muscles are strengthened), improves muscularendurance, is objectively documentable, and increases muscular strengthwith relatively few repetitions.

In addition to combining these desirable advantages, an exerciseapparatus utilizing both isometrics and isokinetics would obviate theabove-mentioned problem associated with isotonic exercise of maximallyloading the dynamically contracting muscle at only its weakest point.Instead, the apparatus could be adjusted such that maximal loading couldoccur at any of the several points along its limited range-of-motion.Thus, it becomes clear that an exercise apparatus combining theadvantages of both isometric and isotonic exercise would be a greatadvance in the art. Moreover, such an apparatus would have greatbenefits as a physical therapy device for use by those who have sufferedan injury or who have reduced capacity for exercise.

BRIEF SUMMARY AND OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

In view of the above described state of the art, the present inventionseeks to realize the following objects and advantages.

It is a primary object of the present invention to provide an exerciseapparatus which is adaptable to a variety of different circumstances anduser conditions.

Another object of this invention is to provide a combinedisometric/isotonic resistance exercise apparatus providing theadvantages inherent in both of these resistance methods.

Another object of this invention is to provide an apparatus forproviding range-of-motion exercises for different extremities of thehuman body.

It is another object of the invention to provide an exercise apparatuswhich is self-contained and adjustable to provide many differentexercises, each exercise focusing on and isolating different musclegroups.

Another object of this invention is to provide an apparatus forconveniently providing bidirectional exercise of different extremitiesof the human body.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide an exerciseapparatus which is lightweight and portable.

It is still another object of the present invention to provide anexercise apparatus which is easily manufactured and relativelyinexpensive.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide an exerciseapparatus which is efficient, durable, easily assembled, and operable byone user without assistance from another person.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide apparatuswhich can be adapted for use in a commercial or residential fitnesssetting and in a medical or physical therapy setting.

These and other objects and advantages of the invention will become morefully apparent from the description and claims which follow, or may belearned by the practice of the invention.

Accordingly, the exercise apparatus of the present invention comprisesgenerally means for receiving a body extremity, said means for receivinga body extremity receiving a directional force provided by the bodyextremity, means for maintaining the means for receiving a bodyextremity in a predefined plane during movement, and means for providingresistance to movement upon application of the force to the means forreceiving a body extremity.

At present preference, the means for receiving a body extremitycomprises a bar to be grasped or otherwise contacted by a bodyextremity, such as a hand. Alternatively, for example, one or moreslings is provided into which a body extremity is inserted.

A preferred means for maintaining the means for receiving a bodyextremity in a predefined plane during movement comprises a cylindricalsleeve securely attached to each end of the bar, each sleeve beingslidably mounted on a post. The two posts combine to form a plane withinwhich movement of the bar is limited. It will be appreciated that thepredefined plane can be either flat or curved.

One means for providing resistance can preferably comprise a cord formedof a material exhibiting elastic properties which is securely attachednear the bottom and top end of each vertically disposed post. The cordis attached to one of the sleeves slidably mounted on the verticallydisposed posts to impose resistance to movement by the body extremity.

Another preferred means for providing resistance can comprise apneumatic resistance device. For example, an air cylinder which includesa piston and variable resistance controls can be utilized to imposeresistance against the movement of body extremity. If desired, both anelastic resistance providing device and a pneumatic resistance providingdevice can be included.

This invention may also include a support structure, depending upon theintended use thereof. For example, the apparatus may be self supportingand include a bench or chair upon which the user sits or lays. Suchfree-standing embodiments of the present invention may be adapted toprovide access to a wheelchair so that person confined to the wheelchaircan obtain the advantages of the invention. Alternatively, the apparatusmay be adapted for connection to a standard hospital bed so that aperson confined thereto can also obtain the advantages of the invention.

Some embodiments of the invention may be attached to a vertical surface,such as a wall, or to some other non-horizontal surface. When attachedto a wall, the user may sit upon a user support structure whichpreferably includes adjustments for height, angle or leg support, andangle of back support. Alternatively, the user may stand, squat, or laydown when using the wall-mounted embodiment. Additional embodiments ofthe present invention are particularly suited and sized for exercisinguser's hand and fingers which can be used on a table top or held aloftby the user. In embodiments of the present invention for exercising thehand, the user grasps structures which are provided with an ergonomiccurve to ensure that the palm and fingers of the hand are oriented at aproper angle for flexion and extension motion. Importantly, allembodiments of the present invention can be adjusted to properly orientthe apparatus to provide suitable range-of-motion exercises.

In one example of use of the present invention, the user grasps the baror other extremity holding devices, or otherwise contacts the same, andexerts a force. The position of the bar can be varied to accommodatedifferent positions for a body extremity. The bar is be pushed or pulledby a variety of body extremities or parts, as desired, to work themuscle group to be exercised. Responsive to the force exerted, the barprovides resistance to the movement of the body extremity. In somecases, the body extremity is allowed to move only a small amount. Bylimiting the movement of the bar to a slight distance, regardless of theforce exerted, the benefits of both isometric and isotonic resistanceexercises are effectively combined.

These and other objects and advantages of the invention will become morefully apparent from the description and claims which follow, or may belearned by the practice of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order to better appreciate how the above-recited and other advantagesand objects of the invention are obtained, a more particular descriptionof the invention briefly described above will be rendered by referenceto specific embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appendeddrawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typicalembodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be consideredlimiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explainedwith additional specificity and detail through the use of theaccompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one presently preferred embodiment ofthe present invention intended for general purpose use;

FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the embodiment represented in FIG.1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of another preferred embodiment of thepresent invention adapted specifically for users confined to awheelchair;

FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of the embodiment represented in FIG.3 further illustrating the position of a typical wheelchair wheel;

FIG. 4A is a side elevational view of another embodiment particularlysuited for use with a wheelchair;

FIG. 5 is a front elevational view of still another preferred embodimentof the present invention specifically adapted for users confined to abed;

FIG. 5A is a front elevational view another embodiment of the presentinvention similar to the embodiment represented in FIG. 5 which includesa pivoting mechanism;

FIG. 6 is an enlarged elevational fragmentary view illustratingattachment of the flexible and elastic cord to a slidable sleeve with asling attached thereto for holding a body extremity of a user;

FIG. 7 is an enlarged elevational fragmentary view, according to theembodiment represented in FIG. 5, illustrating the attachment of theflexible and elastic cord near the top of a vertical post and furtherillustrating the securing of telescoping cross members after adjustmentthereof;

FIG. 8 is an enlarged elevational fragmentary view of the preferredmanner in which the flexible and elastic cord is attached near the topof a vertically disposed post;

FIG. 9 is an enlarged elevational fragmentary view of the structureswhich can preferably be used to allow the components of the illustratedembodiments to be adjustably positioned;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 11 is a side elevational view of the embodiment illustrated in FIG.10;

FIG. 12 is a detailed elevational view of a portion of the embodimentillustrated in FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 13A is an end view of a portion of another embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 15 is a side view of another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the presentinvention which is particularly adapted for mounting on a verticalsurface;

FIGS. 16A & 16B are perspective and side views, respectively, of afurther embodiment of the present invention a portion of which isparticularly suited for mounting on a vertical surface with usersupporting structures resting on an adjacent horizontal surface;

FIG. 16C is a representation of one preferred resistance imposingstructure which can be used in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the presentinvention which is particularly suited for exercising a human hand andwhich conveniently rests upon a table top;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the presentinvention which is particularly suited for exercising a human hand andwhich can conveniently be used free standing and carried from locationto location; and

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the presentinvention which can conveniently be mounted on a surface and which isparticularly suited for exercising a human hand through any desiredrange-of-motion.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Further information regarding a related apparatus can be found in U.S.patent application Ser. No. 08/259,037 filed on Jun. 13, 1994 entitledADAPTABLE EXERCISE APPARATUS which is now incorporated herein byreference in its entirety.

Reference will now be made to the drawings in which like components aredesignated with like reference numbers throughout. Referring first toFIG. 1, a first presently preferred embodiment of the present invention,generally designated 20, is illustrated. The embodiment of FIG. 1comprises one example of a means for receiving a body extremity of auser 22. The structures generally designated at 22 function as onepresently preferred example of a means for receiving a body extremity ofa user. The means for receiving a body extremity is subject to a forceprovided by the user (e.g., by an arm or a leg) and this force resultsin movement of the means for receiving a body extremity 22.

Also illustrated in FIG. 1 is one preferred structural arrangement of ameans, comprising the structures generally designated at 24, formaintaining the means for receiving a body extremity 22 in a predefinedplane during movement. In the illustrated embodiments, such movement islimited to a flat predefined plane but may also include curved planes ora flat plane oriented at a non-vertical angle as will be explainedfurther shortly.

Also shown are representative structures, generally designated 26,functioning as a means for providing resistance to movement uponapplication of the force to the means for receiving the body extremity22. Each of these components will be described in greater detailhereafter as well as alternative structures which can be used within thescope of the present invention.

The means for receiving a body extremity of a user 22, in one of itspreferred forms, is a rigid horizontal bar 28, which is formed of asuitable strong and rigid material. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the bar28 has two ends, both ends being securely attached to the sleeve 26which function as part of the means for maintaining the means forreceiving a body extremity in a predefined plane during movement.

Alternatively, the means for receiving the body extremity may be carriedout by at least one sling 30 into which a body extremity can beinserted. FIG. 6 illustrates the sling 30 as being attached to a sleeve36 as explained hereafter. Attachment thereof may be made by a bolt 32in combination with a washer 34, the bolt 32 passing through apertures,not shown, formed in both ends of the sling 30, as well as through thewasher 34. Alternatively, the sling 30 may be slidably attached to therigid crossbar 28.

Those skilled in the art will recognize that the sling 30 may beattached in any of a number of different ways to the means 24, and thatthe attachment assembly shown in FIG. 6 is merely illustrative.Similarly, one skilled in the art will recognize that the means forreceiving a body extremity of a user may have a different form than thebar 28 or the sling 30, without departing from the scope of thisinvention, as will be discussed later. For example, a rigid handleattached to a supporting structure on one of its ends may also be usedwithin the scope of the present invention as a means for receiving abody extremity.

In the illustrated embodiments, the means for maintaining the means forreceiving a body extremity in a predefined plane during movement furtherlimits such movement to one plane. In other embodiments, it may allowmovement in a curved plane. In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1-6,the means for maintaining comprises two sleeves 36 attached to the rigidbar 28 (which functions as a means for receiving a body extremity) and apost 38 upon which each sleeve 36 is slidably mounted.

As shown, each sleeve 36 is preferably cylindrical in shape and includesa hollow central portion 40. The post 38 upon which each sleeve 36 isslidably mounted passes through the central portion 40 of the sleeve 36.The posts 38 are generally oriented in an upright position, and arepreferably disposed vertically to provide a vertical range-of-motion,and parallel, thus defining a flat plane. It is also within the scope ofthe present invention to dispose the posts 38 at an angle other thanvertical as will be discussed later in this disclosure.

Each of the two parallel posts 38 is formed of a rigid material, forexample a metal, and should have a fairly smooth exterior surface suchthat the sleeve 36 mounted on each post 38 slides freely thereon. Theposts 38 may be characterized as including top, middle and bottomportions. The bottom portions of each post 38 are preferably attached toa base or frame, as detailed hereafter.

In the illustrated embodiments, a crossbar 42 connects the top portionsof the two parallel posts 38 together. The crossbar 42 has two ends, oneend being fixedly attached to the top portion of each of the posts 38.This connection may be made in any manner known in the art. As shown inFIG. 7, the one preferred connection is made by a weld joining the post38 and the crossbar 42.

Each sleeve 36 should be rigid and sized so as to accept one of theposts 38 in the hollow central portion 40 thereof in a snug, but nottight, slidable relationship. It will be apparent to one skilled in theart that the two upright parallel posts 38, in combination with thesleeves 36, define a flat plane within which movement of the attachedmeans for receiving a body extremity, i.e., rigid bar 28, is limited.

Also included in the embodiments of the present invention is a means forproviding resistance to movement of the body extremity. As shown inFIGS. 1-6, one preferred component for carrying out this function isformed from an elongated piece of material exhibiting elasticproperties, such as a flexible cord 44. Other materials and devices,such as a sheet of elastic material or even a pneumatic or hydraulicdevice (either actively driven or passive), are contemplated to functionas a means for providing resistance and fall within the purview of thisinvention. For example, one passive pneumatic device which canpreferably be used within the scope of the present invention is known inthe industry as BIMBA stainless steel air chambers Model no. 094-D andair release valves manufactured by SMC and designated no. AS2200 canalso preferably used therewith to provide accurately variableresistance. Another preferred structure for providing resistance tomovement is the flexible cord 44 which in one form is commonly referredto as “surgical tubing.” Moreover, all of the described resistanceproviding structures have the advantage of being unitary structureswhich provide resistance in two directions, in contrast to twoindependent devices which each provide resistance in only one direction,e.g., springs.

It will be apparent that the resistance to movement provided by theflexible cord 44 is determined by the diameter thereof. The flexiblecord 44 is pulled to a desired tautness and the first end of theflexible cord 44 is connected to or near the top portion of a post 38and the second end of the flexible cord 44 is connected to the bottomportion of a post 38, as shown in FIG. 5. Alternatively, the second endof the flexible cord 44 is connected to a base, such as shown in FIGS. 1through 4 and described hereafter.

Importantly, some portion of the flexible cord 44 is connected to thesleeve 36. If desired, clamps 45 may be arranged so that they releasablygrip the flexible cord 44. This will allow the position of the sleeve 36relative to the length of the flexible cord to be adjusted. In somecircumstances, e.g., accommodating differing size users, adjusting therelative position of the sleeve 36 and the flexible cord 44 will beadvantageous.

FIGS. 6 through 8 illustrate a preferred flexible cord 44 and the mannerin which it is attached to the post 38 and the sleeve 36, as mentioned.Both the first and second ends of the cord 44 comprise an integratedloop 46 (FIG. 8), although it should be recognized that the loop 46 maybe formed in any manner known in the art. As shown, hooks 48 and 50 aresecurely attached, as by welding, near the top of each post 38,preferably to the crossbar 42, and bottom portion of each post 38,respectively. Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 1 through 4, the bottomhook 50 may be fixedly attached to a base, described later herein.

Importantly, the middle portion of the flexible cord 44 is attached to asleeve 36. See FIG. 6. With the top and bottom end portions of the cord44 looped about top and bottom hooks 48 and 50, respectively, and themiddle portion of the cord 44 attached to a sleeve 36, the rigid bar (28in FIG. 1) or the sling (30 in FIG. 6), which function as means forreceiving a body extremity, is held in place ready to receive a bodyextremity. The flexible cord 44 provides resistance to movement uponapplication of a force to the means for receiving a body extremity.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, the apparatus 20 includes structuralmeans such as a base or frame, generally designated at 52, which is selfsupporting. The base 52 of FIGS. 1 and 2 is formed of a rigid materialand comprises a rectangular frame portion 54, a supporting leg 56disposed at each corner of the rectangular frame portion 54, and anadjustable positioned assembly, generally designated at 58, formaintaining the user in a proper position relative to the otherstructures of the embodiment.

The adjustable positioned assembly 58 comprises a cross member 60 whichis slidably mounted to opposing members of the frame portion 54, and anadjustable seat, generally designated at 62, upon which the user may sitor lay during operation of the illustrated apparatus. In the preferredembodiment, the cross member 60 includes integrated sleeves 64 throughwhich opposing members of the frame portion 54 pass, similar to therelationship between each sleeve 36 and post 38.

In this manner, the position of the user is adjustably positionedrelative to the bar 28 or slings 30 to allow the user to contact andprovide a force against the bar 28 or slings 30, the force preferablyresulting in no more than slight movement of the bar 28 or sling 30. Asillustrated, each integrated sleeve 64 may include an aperture 66 whichat certain positions corresponds, to one of a series of apertures 68drilled or otherwise formed in the opposing members of the frame portion54 to which the cross member 60 is mounted. A pin, or other similarwell-known implement, not shown, may then be passed through alignedapertures 66 and 68 to secure the crossbar 60 in place during use.

The adjustable positioned assembly 58, shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, furthercomprises the adjustable seat, 62, which includes a pair of seat members70 and 72 which are adjustable relative to each other between a coplanarposition and a non-coplanar position, and an adjustable stem 74 by whichthe height of the adjustable seat 62 is manipulated.

The adjustable stem 74 is shown seated in a collar 76 which is fixedlyattached to the cross member 60, near the center thereof. The collar 76includes an aperture 78 which may be aligned with one of a series ofapertures 80 drilled or otherwise formed in the stem 74. A pin, or othersimilar implement known in the art (not shown) is inserted throughaligned apertures 78 and 80 to secure the adjustable seat 62 at thedesired height.

The seat member 70, as illustrated, is preferably horizontal inorientation and is securely attached (as by welding) to the top end ofthe adjustable stem 74. The second seat member 72 is hingedly attachedto the first seat member 70, thereby allowing for adjustment of the twoseat members 70 and 72 between a coplanar and a non-coplanarrelationship. The hinged connection may be made by a bolt 82 whichpasses through aligned apertures, not shown, in both of the seat members70 and 72 near the edges thereof. A corresponding nut, not shown, wouldsecure the bolt 82 in place. The seat members 70 and 72 may be padded toensure the comfort of a user.

An alternative embodiment of the present invention 23, which includes amodified base 52, is illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4. The embodimentillustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4 is specifically adapted for operation by auser confined to a wheelchair. This embodiment includes a generallyU-shaped frame portion 84, a supporting leg 86 disposed at each cornerof the U-shaped frame portion 84 and another adjustable positionedassembly 96. The frame portion 84 and the supporting legs 86 are nearlyidentical to the frame portion 54 and supporting legs 56 of theembodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2, except that the frame portion 84 does notform a complete rectangle. One of the members of the frame portion 84 isabsent to allow access to the adjustable position assembly, generallyindicated at 88, by a wheelchair.

As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, the adjustable positioned assembly 88comprises a platform 90 which includes angle irons 92 and 94 welded orotherwise attached to the longitudinal edges thereof and T-shapedsleeves 96 by which the platform 90 is slidably mounted to opposingmembers of the frame portion 84. The platform 90 is formed of a rigidplate material, for example metal, fiberglass, or a composite or someother synthetic material, and disposed so as to rest on the surfacesupporting the apparatus 23. The angle irons 92 and 94 are alsopreferably formed of a rigid and durable material. The sleeves 96 aresimilar to the sleeves 64 of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2,except that each is connected to the platform 90 which accommodates awheelchair, rather than to the crossbar 60 upon which the adjustableseat 62 is mounted. Each sleeve 96 is fixedly attached to the platform90.

The sleeves 96 function similarly to the sleeves 64 in that each sleeve96 has an aperture 98, preferably identical to the aperture 66 (FIGS. 1and 2), and is aligned with one in a series of apertures 100 in theframe portion 84, preferably identical to the series of apertures 68(FIGS. 1 and 2) in the frame portion 54. Thus, as represented in FIG. 4,a wheelchair (not completely illustrated) having a wheel 102, ispositioned on the platform 90 and the angle irons 92 and 94 preventmovement thereof during use and the sleeves 96 make the position of theplatform 90 adjustable relative to the rigid bar 28.

FIG. 4A provides a side view of another embodiment of the presentinvention similar to that illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4. The apparatusillustrated in FIG. 4A includes wheelchair angular positioningstructures comprising a telescoping strut generally indicated at 100Aand a grasping structure generally indicated at 100B, preferablyincluding a strap and buckle, which is pivotally attached to thetelescoping strut 100A. The grasping structure 100B releasably graspsthe handles of a wheelchair (not completely represented in FIG. 4A) andthe telescoping strut 100A is pivotally attached to the frame portion84. The length of the telescoping strut 100A can be selectively lockedallowing the wheelchair to be tilted to the desired angular orientation.Thus, the position and orientation of the wheelchair can be adjusted toprovide movement in whichever appropriate range-of-motion is desired. Itwill also be appreciated that the structures represented in FIGS. 3, 4 &4A which facilitate wheelchair use can also be incorporated into any ofthe other embodiments of the present invention described herein.

Referring now to FIG. 5, another embodiment of the present invention,generally indicated at 21, is shown. The embodiment illustrated in FIG.5 is particularly intended for connection to a hospital bed or the like.In this embodiment, the bar 28 and the crossbar 42 each comprise twoseparate telescoping members (28A-B and 42A-B, respectively), thecrossbar 42 including a screw 104 for securing the telescoping membersin the desired position. In this manner, the apparatus 21 can beadjusted to fit beds having differing widths.

Also, in the embodiment represented in FIG. 5, the parallel posts 38 areextended and include at the bottom portions thereof wheel assemblies,generally indicated at 106, to assist in transporting the apparatus 21to and from the bed. Each post 38 further includes adjustable clamps,generally designated at 108, by which the apparatus 21 may betemporarily connected to the frame of the bed in which the user isconfined.

As shown in FIG. 5, the clamps 108 include a collar 110 which can beadjustably positioned along the length of the post 38 by a screw 112,and a set of receiving jaws 114. The receiving jaws 114 have a standardlocking mechanism, not shown, by which the jaws 114 are locked into afixed position about the frame of the bed. The wheel assembly 106 iscommon in the art and may include a wheel 116 rotatably mounted betweenparallel arms 118 and 120, an axle, not shown, passing through both arms118 and 120, as well as through the center of the wheel 116. It may bedesirable to include a pair of wheels or casters in place of wheels 116so that the apparatus 21 will be free standing for transport andstorage. In this embodiment, the bottom hook 50 which secures the bottomportion of the cord 44, is fixedly attached to the bottom portion of thepost 38.

Because of the tautness of the cord 44, movement of the means 22 forreceiving a body extremity responsive to a force applied thereto willgenerally not exceed a few inches in either direction of the restingposition. In this manner, a user properly positioned adjacent to themeans for receiving (22), grasps or otherwise contacts the means forreceiving (22) and exerts a force thereon utilizing one or more musclegroups. The position of the user and the position of the adjustable seat62 (FIGS. 1 and 2) determine the muscle group or groups to be involved.

Because of the characteristics of resistance providing deviceillustrated in FIGS. 1-10, only slight movement preferably generallyresults from application of the force by a body extremity or other bodypart. Still, such movement prevents classification of the apparatus as astrictly isometric device. However, in some embodiments of the presentinvention the full range-of-motion of which the user is capable is alsoprevented, thus preventing classification of the apparatus as strictlyisotonic. Rather, many embodiments of the present invention effectivelycombine both of these principles to provide the advantages inherent ineach.

FIG. 5A illustrates another preferred embodiment of the presentinvention similar to the embodiment represented in FIG. 5 but whichincludes a pivoting structure, represented by the box 39, provided nearthe bottom of the post 38. A suitable mechanism for the pivotingstructure 39 can readily be devised by those skilled in the art. Also,the pivoting mechanisms represented in FIGS. 10-12 can be adapted foruse with the other embodiments described herein.

FIGS. 10-12 illustrate another preferred embodiment of the presentinvention. The embodiment of FIGS. 10-12 shares many of the essentialcharacteristics of the structures illustrated in FIGS. 1-9 withadditional desirable structures added thereto. As will be appreciated,the structures represented in FIGS. 10-12 provide the importantadvantage of allowing the angular orientation of pertinent structures tobe varied so that the relationship between the user's body and a rigidhorizontal bar assembly, generally designated at 156, can be carefullyselected and retained during exercise so that maximum benefit to theuser can be obtained. It will be understood that selecting and retainingthe proper relationship between the user's body and the bar assembly 156is important to obtaining maximum benefit for the user by allowing aparticular muscle group or groups to be exercised.

Referring now to FIG. 10, many of the illustrated structures are similarto those described in connection with FIGS. 1-9 and thus repetitiousexplanation will not be given here. Similarly to the earlier describedstructures, a frame 152 is provided. A seat support assembly isgenerally designated at 154. The seat support assembly 154 is thepresently preferred arrangement for the means for supporting the user'sbody. The seat support assembly 154 is shown as a skeleton ready toreceive, for example, upholstered pads (not illustrated).

The seat support assembly 154 can be adjustably positioned along theframe 152 in a manner similar to that described earlier herein inconnection with cross bar 60 and sleeves 64 (FIGS. 1 and 2). Theillustrated arrangement is the preferred structure for providing a meansfor adjusting the distance between the seat and the horizontal barassembly 156.

A seat back support 164 is also provided with a pivoting structure 162which allows the angular orientation of the seat back support 164 to beadjusted and held in place. Also, similarly to the function describedearlier herein for the adjustable seat 62 (FIGS. 1 and 2), the height ofthe seat support assembly 154 can be adjusted using the illustratedmeans for adjusting the height of the seat support assembly.Furthermore, as will be explained more fully shortly, the seat supportassembly 154 can also be rotated.

Also illustrated in FIG. 10 are two posts 166 which function to keep themovement of the horizontal bar assembly 156 in a predefined planesimilarly to the earlier described corresponding structures. Desirably,pivoting structures 160 are provided to orient the predefined plane inwhich the horizontal bar assembly 156 moves in any one of a plurality ofangular orientations. A crossbar 176 connects the two posts 166 togetherand assists with keeping the posts 166 parallel.

Referring next to the side elevational view of FIG. 11, the function ofthe pivoting structures is more particularly shown. As represented bythe arrows provided in FIG. 11, the seat support assembly 154 can beadjusted vertically (arrow 168), rotated (arrow 172), and positionedhorizontally (arrow 172). These adjustments allow the orientation of theseat support assembly 154 to be altered in three planes in relation tothe horizontal bar assembly 156. Moreover, the pivoting structure 162allows the seat back support 164 to be adjusted to any one of theplurality of angular positions in the plane represented by arrow 174.

Also represented in FIG. 11 is a pivoting structure 160 which allows theangular orientation of the posts 166 to be altered and held in any of aplurality of positions in the plane represented by arrow 165. FIG. 12provides a detailed view of the pivoting structure 160 and the angularorientations provided thereby. The pivoting structures 160 and 162 arethe preferred structures for carrying out the means for pivoting of thepresent invention. It is preferred that the illustrated pivotingstructures 160 and 162 can usefully provide an angular range of anywherefrom one-hundred and eighty degrees to fifteen degrees. It is mostpreferred that the pivoting structures 160 and 162 provide an angularrange of ninety about degrees or about forty-five degrees.

Those skilled in the art will be able to devise alternative arrangementsto carry out the function of pivoting structures 160 and 162. Forexample, pins of some kind may be inserted into bores 178 (identified inFIG. 12) of the pivoting structures 160 and 162 or some otherarrangement can be used.

It will be appreciated that the angular adjustments for the seatassembly 154 and the posts 166 illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11 provideeven more flexibility and benefit for the user than if angularadjustment for just one component were provided. With the embodiment ofthe present invention represented in FIGS. 10-12, the orientation of theuser's body in relation to the means for receiving a body extremity canbe specifically adjusted and held in place.

Some embodiments of the present invention may have all, or just some, ofthe adjusting structures represented in FIGS. 10-12. Moreover, thestructures represented in FIGS. 10-12 can be combined with thoseillustrated in the other figures provided herein to arrive at additionalembodiments falling within the scope of the present invention.

Reference will next be made to FIG. 13 which provides a perspective viewof yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention. Theembodiment of the present invention represented in FIG. 13 includes aframe 200 which can be fabricated in accordance with the same principlesas applied with the earlier described embodiments. Also represented inFIG. 13 are two joints 202 which allow the frame 200 to fold upon itselffor storage and/or transport which is a great advantage when the usermust move the embodiment or if space is limited and the embodiment mustbe stored in a concealed location when not being used.

Also represented in FIG. 13 are two posts 204 which are connected to thepivoting structures 206. A sleeve 208 is provided on each post 204. Eachsleeve 208 can slide along the length of the posts 204 in a fashionsimilar to that explained in the earlier described embodiments.

An upper bar 212 and a lower bar 210 are provided and are connected tosleeves 208 as indicated in FIG. 13. With both an upper bar 212 and alower bar 210 connected to each sleeve 208, either bar can receive abody extremity of a user and the directional force provided by the bodyextremity. For example, the user may place one or both hands with palmsfacing downward toward lower bar 210 and the back of the hand facing theupper bar 212. In this way, the embodiment can resist the movement ofthe hand in when engaging in either extension or flexion movementwithout requiring the user to reposition the hand. Other bodyextremities can also be similarly accommodated.

The spacing between the upper bar 212 and the lower bar 210 can be fixedor structures can be provided to adjust the spacing to accommodatedifferent body extremities. The upper bar 212 and the lower bar 210 caneach be provided with appropriate padding and are preferably mounted inthe sleeves 208 so that one or both can rotate in the direction of arrow214.

Also illustrated in FIG. 13 is a support bar 214 which is connected ateach of its ends to tubes 216 which are each provided with structures toadjustably hold the tubes 216, and thus the support bar 214, at one ofmany possible positions along the length of the posts 204. Also providedon the support bar 214 is an extremity rest 218. The extremity rest 218is mounted so it can rotate about the support bar 218 in the directionof arrow 215. The extremity rest 218 is particularly useful forsupporting the forearm of a user (not represented) as the user curls thefingers of one or both hands, and places said fingers from the rearwardside, between the upper bar 212 and the lower 210 and engaging inexercise of said fingers. The position of the support bar 214, and theposition and orientation of the extremity rest 218, can be adjusted toaccommodate different users and different body extremities.

The flexible cord 220 provides resistance to movement of the upper bar212 and the lower bar 210. Other resistance providing structures canalso be used to resist the movement of the upper bar 212 and the lowerbar 210. The embodiment represented in FIG. 13 can be fabricated in asize for use on a table top and used for conditioning or rehabilitationof a user's hand and wrist. The embodiment of FIG. 13 can be readilyadapted for other applications as will be appreciated by those skilledin the art using the information set forth herein.

Reference will next be made to FIG. 13A which is a detailed view of aportion of another embodiment of the present invention. Represented inFIG. 13A are two posts 204, two sleeves, an upper bar 212 and a lowerbar 210 all of which function similarly to the corresponding structuresrepresented in FIG. 13. In contrast to the embodiment of FIG. 13,resistance to the movement of the body extremity is not provided by theflexible cord 220, but rather by two air cylinders 222. The aircylinders 222 can be the same or similar to those explained earlier andcan be selected by those skilled in the art from the devices availablein the industry.

The body of the air cylinders 222 is preferably attached to the sleeves208 and pistons 224, protruding from each end of the air cylinders 222,are attached at their ends to the posts 204 or the frame (notillustrated in FIG. 13A) of the embodiment. It will be appreciated thatmany different pneumatic devices can preferably be used with theembodiments of the present invention. Importantly, the preferred aircylinders provide a unitary device which provides resistance in bothdirections of travel. The amount of resistance can be readily adjustedand accurately controlled. Moreover, the preferred air cylinders aredurable and reliable. Those skilled in the art will appreciate thatembodiments of the present invention can be devised which require only asingle air cylinder 222 while it is preferred to provide two aircylinders 222 to provide the function of imposing a resistance againstthe movement of a user's extremity.

Reference will next be made to FIG. 14 which is a perspective view ofanother preferred embodiment of the present invention. The embodiment ofthe invention illustrated in FIG. 14 is similar to the embodimentrepresented in FIGS. 10-12 but with the inclusion of additionalstructures and desirable features.

As represented in FIG. 14, a pair of air cylinders 180 are connectedbetween the seat assembly 154 and a member of the frame 152. Thus, asthe user rests on the seat assembly 154, the user's legs or arms, whichengage the horizontal bar assembly 156, can be exercised by sliding theseat assembly 154 along the frame 152 in the directions indicated byarrow 182 for an additional exercise accommodated by the presentinvention. It will be appreciated that the horizontal bar assembly 156illustrated in FIG. 14 can be provided with extremity holding devices,represented by boxes 184 as can be devised by those skilled in the art,which can be used to hold the extremity of the user in place. The upperbar 212 and the lower bar 210, both represented in FIG. 13, can alsofunction as the structure for receiving a body extremity in theembodiment illustrated in FIG. 14.

Reference will next be made to FIG. 15 which is a side view of anotherembodiment of the present invention. It will be appreciated that theembodiment represented in FIG. 15 shares many of the earlier describedfeatures with additional desirable features also being included.Represented in FIG. 15 is an extremity range-of-motion resistance devicegenerally indicated at 286 and an accompanying user support structuregenerally indicated at 250.

The user support structure 250 is represented as a frame-like deviceupon which cushions and other structures can be attached. For example,particularly when the apparatus described herein are used in a physicaltherapy application, the user support structure can include contouredsurfaces to receive the user's body, straps and grips to allow the userto be held in place, and any other structures which can be devised bythose knowledgeable in the industry which may be of assistance to theuser. Moreover, devices for supporting the lumbar region of the user'sback, such devices preferably being adjustable, are desirably includedin some embodiments of the present invention.

The user support structure 250 includes a reclining back 252 which isattached to a horizontal member 262 (for supporting the user's buttocks)by way of a pivot 256. An angle plate 258 is provided with a pluralityof bores (one of which is indicated at 260) which function to secure thereclining back 252 in one of a plurality of angular orientations. A pinor any other suitable structure can be used with the bores 260 and thereclining back 252 to hold the reclining back in any one of theplurality of positions illustrated by the phantom images of thereclining back 252 and in the arc represented by arrow 254.

An adjustable leg rest 264 is attached to the horizontal member 262 by apivot 266. Using an angle plate 268, the angular orientation of theadjustable leg rest 264 can be altered to any of the positionsrepresented by the phantom images of the adjustable leg rest 264 and inthe arc represented by arrow 265 in a manner similar to that justdescribed in connection with the reclining back 252. The user supportstructure 250 can be adjusted vertically in the directions of arrow 272.The user support structure 250 is supported on a shaft 278 andpreferably rotates in the directions of arrow 276.

The user support structure 250 is slidably attached to a frame 280 byway of a support sleeve 282. The support sleeve 282 can be fixed at anyone of a plurality of positions along the frame using a pin or a bolt(not explicitly illustrated) inserted into one of a plurality of bores284 and 284A. In contrast to fixing the position of the user supportstructure 250, the user support structure 250 can be allowed to slidealong the frame 280 as the user engages in the exercise. A bidirectionalresistance unit, preferably comprising a pneumatic resistance device 296with a piston 297, can be attached to the frame 280 and the supportsleeve 282 using hangers 295A and 295B, respectively, to add resistanceto the sliding movement of the user support structure 250.

The extremity range-of-motion device 286 is mounted on the frame 280 andheld in any desired position along the frame 280 in the directions ofarrow 287 using bores 284 and 284B. Also represented in FIG. 15 is apost 288 attached to a sleeve 292 by way of a pivot 294. The post 288holds a sleeve 290 connected to a brace member (not illustrated in FIG.15) and a sleeve 292 (shown in phantom image 292A) connected to a barwhich can receive a body extremity of a user and the directional forceprovided by the body extremity.

A resistance providing unit 289 is preferably included to imposeresistance upon the movement of the bar. The post 288 can also pivot inthe directions of arrow 291 and as represented by the phantom images ofthe post 288. A resistance providing unit 285 imposes resistance on thepivoting movement of the post 288 in the directions of the arrow 291.The post 288 can be locked into one of the positions shown by thephantom images of the post 288 using one of the bore 292. Alternatively,the post 288 can be allowed to pivot during exercise. Those skilled inthe art will appreciate that the earlier described structures can alsobe included in the embodiment represented in FIG. 15. For example, anyof the earlier described resistance providing structures can function asthe resistance providing structures 285 and 289 in the embodimentrepresented in FIG. 15. It will be appreciated that the apparatusrepresented in FIG. 15 allows a user to engage in full range-of-motionexercises for a number of different portions of the human body, forexample arms and legs.

Reference will next be made to FIG. 16 which is a perspective view ofanother range-of-motion exercise apparatus 300 which is particularlysuited for mounting on a vertical surface, such as a wall W. Whenmounted on the wall W, the apparatus takes very little room to operateand can be folded against the wall W when not in use. Thus, even userswith little spare room for exercise equipment can utilize the apparatusillustrated in FIG. 16. Moreover, the vertical mounting of the apparatusallows range-of-motion exercises to be efficiently carried out in avertical direction.

As illustrated in FIG. 16, a frame 320 is preferably attached to thewall W using flanges 322. A pair of posts 302 are attached to respectivesleeves 318 by way of pivots 314. The posts 302 can be locked in adesired angular orientation using the bores 316 on an angularpositioning plate 312 or a resistance providing structure 315 can beprovided to impose resistance on the pivoting movement of the posts 302during exercise. A resistance providing device 313 is also provided toimpose resistance on the movement of the sleeves 318 along the frame. Abar 308 is connected between sleeves 310 to allow movement of the bar308 along the posts 302.

A resistance providing unit, preferably an air chamber 324 having apiston 325, is provided to impose resistance on the movement of the bar308 along the posts 302. Also represented in FIG. 16 is an elasticresistance providing device generally indicated at 325 which can beattached to the range-of-motion exercise apparatus 300 and used incombination with a pneumatic resistance providing device such as thatrepresented at 324. Alternatively, the resistance providing device 324can be defeated or eliminated and the elastic resistance providingdevice 325 can be used alone. The elastic resistance providing device325 includes an elastic cord 326, such as the elastic cords describedearlier herein, which is stretched between hooks 330. The hooks 330 areremovably secured to the posts 302 using releasable clamps 328 which canbe any of a number of structures devised by those skilled in the art. Areleasable clamp 332 is secured to the sleeve 310 and a releasable clip334 holds the elastic cord 326 at the desired position. Depending uponthe exercise being performed, only pneumatic resistance providing deviceor only an elastic resistance providing device can be used.Alternatively, in many instances both types of resistance providingdevices can be advantageously used together.

FIG. 16C provides a cut away view of a post 302A which include a centralhollow 302B and a short slot through which a bar 308A passes. The bar308A is attached to a sliding member 310A to which a bar 308A isattached through the slot. The sliding member 310A fits closely withinthe central hollow 302B. At each end of the sliding member 310A arepositioned sealing diaphragms 324A which form an air tight seal with theinterior wall of the post 302A. The sealing diaphragms 324A can befabricated by those skilled in the art or can be selected from thoseavailable in the industry. Each end of the posts 302A are provided withair release valves 325A-B as described earlier herein and as availablein the art and most of the length of the post 302A is air tight.

Using the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 16C, as the sliding member310A is moved in the direction of arrow 310B, air is forced out of airrelease valve 325A and into the interior of the post 302A through airrelease valve 325B. The resistance of the air passing through the airrelease valves 325A-B provides resistance to the movement of the slidingmember 310A and the bar 308A. Advantageously, by adjusting the airrelease valves 325A-B, the resistance imposed in the direction of arrow310B can be, if desired, different than the resistance imposed in thedirection of arrow 310C.

The use of pneumatic resistance providing structures is preferred sincethe fluid medium is air and the resistance provided can be accuratelyand easily adjusted but other fluid motion dampening devices can also beused within the scope of the present invention. The arrangementrepresented in FIG. 16C makes the apparatus more compact and placesstructures out of harms way and away from potential interference. Itwill be appreciated that the other resistance providing devices, such asthose described herein, can be positioned both on the interior and/orthe exterior of the post 302 (FIG. 16) or any other tubular structuresuch as the frame 320 (FIG. 16).

Referring again to FIG. 16, a pair of extremity holding devices,represented at 309, are provided on the bar 308 and can be devised bythose skilled in the art to hold the extremity of the user in place. Anyof the extremity holding devices, such as slings, handles, pads, andother devices described earlier can be used. In particular, when slingsare used as extremity holding devices a user can carry outrange-of-motion exercises more naturally. Moreover, slings can allowimpaired users to perform exercises which would not otherwise bepossible. With the structure illustrated in FIG. 16, a user caneffectively engage in many range-of-motion exercises, either for fitnessor physical therapy purposes.

Reference will next be made to FIGS. 16A-B. FIG. 16A provides aperspective view of the range-of-motion exercise apparatus 300 mountedon a vertical surface with the user support structure 250 while FIG. 16Bprovides a side view of the same apparatus. The user support structure250 is patterned after the corresponding structures described inconnection with FIG. 15 with additional structures provided to allowpositioning of the user supporting structure 250 on an underlyingsurface, such as a floor. Frame members 280 are shaped to rest upon afloor surface. Interconnecting members 283 are attached to sleeves 282.A tube 281 receives the cylinder 278 and means for allowing rotation ofthe user support structure 250 (in the directions of arrow 276) andmeans for adjusting the height of the user support structure 250 (in thedirections of arrow 272) are preferably provided.

With the structures illustrated in FIGS. 16A&B, a user is allowed tocarry out additional range-of-motion exercises. With the user supportstructure 250, the user can perform exercises involving the arms andlegs from a sitting position. Without the user support structure 250,the user can perform appropriate exercises from while standing,kneeling, or laying on the floor. For example, a user can performexercises with the apparatus moving through the arc represented at 338in FIG. 16B and/or moving in the directions of arrow 336.

Reference will next be made to FIG. 17 which provides a perspective viewof another embodiment of the present invention which is particularlysuited for exercising a human hand and which conveniently rests upon atable top. The range-of-motion hand exerciser 350 represented in FIG.17, as well as the exercisers represented in FIGS. 18 and 19 to bedescribed shortly, provide advantageous exercise for the hand, fingers,wrist and the associated regions of the human body. The apparatus isadaptable for performing exercises intended to strengthen a fullyfunctional hand or performing exercises to rehabilitate an impairedhand. Providing an apparatus which performs the functions of theapparatus represented in FIGS. 17-19 satisfies a long-felt need in theindustry. For example, occupational hand therapy is particularlybeneficial to spinal, neck, and other back-related injuries sincerehabilitation begins with the hands.

Represented in FIG. 17 is a frame, generally indicated at 368, whichsupports the range-of-motion exercise device which is particularlysuited for exercising a human hand. The frame 370 includes a tubularmember 370 provided with feet 372 to hold the frame 368 upon a surface,such as a table top.

Similarly to the previously described embodiments, a pair of posts 352are pivotally attached to the frame 368 so that the plane definedthereby can be oriented at one of the desired angles provided by thebores on an angular positioning plate 366. A resistance providing device364 can optionally be installed to impose resistance against thepivoting motion of the posts 352. A pair of ergonomically curved bars356 and 358 are attached to sleeves 354 which slide along the posts 352.The advantage provided by the ergonomic curves will be explainedshortly.

A palm support bar 360 is provided with an ergonomic curve the palmsupport bar attaches to the ends of the posts 352 to brace the same. Apair of resistance providing devices 362, which can preferably bepneumatic and/or elastic resistance providing devices as explainedearlier, are provided to impose bidirectional resistance on the movementof the ergonomically curved bars 356 and 358.

The characteristic structure of the human hand is related to itsfunction as a grasping tool. The human hand comprises three areas, acarpal area, a metacarpal area (palm), and phalanges (thumb andfingers). The human hand's grasping ability is made possible by the factthat the thumb is opposed to the fingers. Thus, the fingers and thumb ofa hand act as versatile pair of pliers which can grasp objects of manydifferent sizes and shapes. The palm of the hand is intended to providea surface upon which grasped objects can rest.

The embodiment represented in FIG. 17 will be described when exercisinga left human hand (not explicitly illustrated in the figures) with theunderstanding that the apparatus can be used for exercising either theleft or the right hand. In use, the angle of the posts 354 is adjustedto suit the exercise being performed. The palm of the hand is placedupon the palm support bar 360 so that the thumb can curl around the palmsupport bar 360 in the area of the bar designated at T. The fingers ofthe hand are preferably placed between the ergonomically curved bar withthe index finger being generally positioned in the areas designated atF₁, the middle finger being generally positioned in the areas designatedat F₂, the ring finger being generally positioned in the areasdesignated at F₃, and the little finger being generally positioned inthe areas designated at F₄. With the fingers of the hand positioned asjust described, the hand assumes a natural position which is notpossible when previously available “straight” structures are used forgrasping. With resistance being imposed against the movement of theergonomically curved bars 356 and 358, the muscles of the fingers can bestrengthened by the fingers pulling on the ergonomically curved bar 356toward the palm support bar 360 and the fingers pushing on theergonomically curved bar 358 away from the palm support bar 360.

It will be appreciated that the apparatus represented in FIG. 17provides the advantages of working the hand in both extension andflexion motions and also through a wide range-of-motions. Moreover, aresistance providing device can be selected so that the resistance canpreferably be adjusted for the needs of individual users. Thus, use ofthe described apparatus strengthens the hand, improves flexibility anddexterity, and carries out range-of-motion conditioning.

Reference will next be made to FIG. 18 which provides a perspective viewof another embodiment of the present invention which is particularlysuited for exercising a human hand and which can be conveniently carriedin a portable fashion wherever a user desires to engage in exercise. Itwill be understood that some structures have not been represented in theview of FIG. 18 but that the explanation provided in connection withFIG. 17 also applies to the embodiment of the present inventionrepresented in FIG. 18.

The embodiment represented in FIG. 18 is most preferably used while theuser is holding it aloft away from any underlying surface. A frame 378is provided which can be fixed in any of a number of angular positions(as indicated by the phantom images 378A and 378B) using the angularpositioning plate 376 so that the range-of-motion hand exerciser 382 canbe supported upon a table top if desired. If the range-of-motion handexerciser is to be held aloft by a user, or if the frame 378 is not tobe used, the frame 378 is folded into the position shown in phantomimage 378B where it is kept until needed.

The range-of-motion hand exerciser 382 is provided with two palm supportbars 360 and 374 so that a user may position a hand from either end ofthe exerciser. It will be appreciated that any of the resistanceproviding devices described herein can be incorporated into therange-of-motion hand exerciser 382.

Reference will next be made to FIG. 19 which shows a range-of-motionhand exerciser generally indicated at 440 with a surface mountingmechanism generally indicated at 400. The surface mounting mechanism 400allows the range-of-motion hand exerciser 440 to be oriented at any oneof a plurality of angular orientations which is particularly desirablefor a user.

The range-of-motion hand exerciser 440 includes palm support bars 360and 374 with ergonomically curved bars 356 and 358 which are connectedto sleeves 354. Resistance providing devices are to be included on therange-of-motion hand exerciser 440 as described earlier.

The surface mounting mechanism 400 includes a fork 402 with ends 446which receive ends 442 of the range-of-motion hand exerciser 440 and aresecured thereto. The fork 402 is attached to a single post 412 by way ofa ball and socket joint which includes a ball 404 connected to the forkand a socket 406 formed in an arm 408. The arm 408 extends outward froma sleeve 410 which receives the post 412. A knob 414 engages anddisengages a locking mechanism which, when the knob 414 is tightened,holds the sleeve 410 in place on the post 412 and holds the ball 404 inposition in the socket 406.

The post 412 is secured to an underlying surface by an attachmentmechanism generally indicated at 416. The attachment mechanismrepresented in FIG. 19 is particularly adapted to secure the post 412onto a horizontally disposed table top (not represented) but therepresented mechanism can be used for securement to other surfaces. Therepresented attachment mechanism 416 includes a base 418 with a lug 422protruding therefrom and into which is received the post 412. A clampfinger 424 extends outward from the lug 422 and is provided with threadson its free end. A stop 426 is held in place by a nut 428. When beingused, a plurality of pads 420 provided on the bottom of the base 418 arepositioned on a surface of a table or similar object. The stop 426 isalso positioned and the nut 428 is tightened until the stop 426 issqueezed against the object's surface and the post 412 is securelysecured thereto. Advantageously, the surface mounting mechanism 400 canbe readily removed when desired. Importantly, any of a number ofmechanisms for securing a post to an underlying surface can be devisedby those skilled in the art and utilized with the embodiments of thepresent invention.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a slingassembly, generally indicated at 340, can be removably attached to oneor both of the ergonomically curved bars 356 and 358 as indicated by thephantom image of the sling assembly 340. The sling assembly 340preferably includes a tube 342, whose shape matches or conforms to theshape of the ergonomically curved bars 356 and 358. The tube 342 canpreferably be fabricated from a tubular plastic material having slitformed therein through which the ergonomically curved bar 356 or 258 canslide. A plurality of finger slings 342A-D are preferably attached tothe tube 342. While four finger slings are represented, it is within thescope of the present invention to only utilize one or more fingerslings, to attach the finger slings in a different fashion, or to attachindividual finger slings to the ergonomically curved bars 356 or 358. Inmany situations, it will be desirable to provide sling assemblies onboth ergonomically curved bars 356 and 358. With a finger sling 324A-D,the user can readily apply bidirectional force to the bar in either ofthe two directions which the bar can travel.

The use of slings, for example finger slings, enhances the use of theembodiments of the present with persons having impairments due tophysical disabilities, injury, and even assist a user who is wearing acast on an extremity. The slings are particularly useful when performingexercises which isolate a particular joint.

With the embodiment of the present invention represented in FIG. 19being secured to a horizontal or vertical surface, the range-of-motionhand exerciser 440 can be moved in the directions of arrows 430, 432,434, 438. The ability of the range-of-motion hand exerciser 440 to movewithin so many degrees of motion provides the benefit of precisepositioning of the range-of-motion hand exerciser 440 for mostefficiently exercising the muscles or muscle group which is desired.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the different featuresrepresented in the above described figures can be combined in many novelembodiments of the invention which have not been specifically describedand which can be adapted to particular applications. It will beappreciated that the embodiments of the present invention provideadvantages which are not available in any previously available devices.For example, the embodiments of the present invention can be adjustedsuch that maximal loading of the user's muscle occurs at any of theseveral points along its limited range-of-motion. Moreover, theembodiments of the present invention have great benefits when providingphysical therapy for those who have suffered an injury or who havereduced capacity for exercise. Still further, the embodiments of thepresent invention provide bidirectional preconditioning for theprevention of injury and bidirectional rehabilitation and isolation ofany repaired muscle group.

In contrast to the present invention are exercise devices in which theorientation of the device in relation to the user is fixed or in whichthe orientation can only be adjusted by moving the user's body. Evenfurther, it will be appreciated that the present invention providessignificant advantages over devices which utilize structures such asweights or mechanical springs for providing resistance to the movementof the user's extremity.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms withoutdeparting from its essential characteristics. The described embodimentsare to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and notrestrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by theappended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changeswhich come within the meaning and range of equivalence of the claims areto be embraced within their scope.

1. An apparatus comprising means for receiving a body extremity of auser, said means for receiving a body extremity receiving a directionalforce provided by the body extremity, means for maintaining the meansfor receiving a body extremity in a predefined plane during movement,and means for providing resistance to movement upon application of theforce to the means for receiving a body extremity, said force resultingin only a limited movement of the means for receiving a body extremity.2. An apparatus as in claim 1 wherein the means for maintaining themeans for receiving a body extremity in a predefined plane duringmovement is further for limiting movement of the means for receiving abody extremity to movement in one dimension.
 3. An apparatus as in claim2 wherein the means for maintaining the means for receiving a bodyextremity in a predefined plane during movement comprises at least onesleeve attached to the means for receiving a body extremity and a postupon which the sleeve is slidably mounted.
 4. An apparatus as in claim 3wherein the sleeve is cylindrical in shape and includes a hollow centralportion, the post upon which the sleeve is slidably mounted passingthrough the central portion of the sleeve.
 5. An apparatus as in claim 3wherein each post is disposed vertically to provide a vertical range ofmotion.
 6. An apparatus as in claim 1 wherein the means for maintainingcomprises two parallel posts, each post including a top portion andfurther comprising at least one crossbar connecting the two parallelposts together.
 7. An apparatus as in claim 6 wherein the crossbarconnects the two parallel posts together at the top portions thereof. 8.An apparatus as in claim 1 wherein the means for receiving a bodyextremity is a bar having two ends, both ends being securely attached tothe means for maintaining the means for receiving a body extremity in apredefined plane during movement.
 9. An apparatus as in claim 1 whereinthe means for receiving a body extremity is at least one sling intowhich a body extremity may be inserted.
 10. An apparatus as in claim 1wherein the means for providing resistance to movement is formed of anelastic material.
 11. An apparatus as in claim 10 wherein the means forproviding resistance to movement further comprises a flexible cord intension.
 12. An apparatus as in claim 11 wherein the resistance tomovement is determined by the diameter of the flexible cord.
 13. Anapparatus as in claim 3 wherein the post includes a top portion and abottom portion, and wherein the means for providing resistance tomovement comprises at lease one flexible cord in tension, the cordcomprising a first end, a second end, and a middle portion, such thatthe first end of the flexible cord in connected to the top portion ofthe post, the second end of the flexible cord is connected to the bottomportion of the post, and the middle portion of the flexible cord isconnected to the sleeve.
 14. An apparatus as in claim 1 furthercomprising structural means for supporting the means for maintaining themeans for receiving a body extremity in a predefined plane duringmovement.
 15. An apparatus as in claim 14 wherein the structural meanscomprising aa self-supporting base.
 16. An apparatus as in claim 15wherein the structural means further includes an adjustable positionerfor maintaining the user in a proper position during use of theapparatus relative to the means for receiving a body extremity.
 17. Anapparatus as in claim 15 wherein the structural means further includesmeans for receiving and maintaining a wheelchair in a proper positionrelative to the means for receiving a body extremity to enable the userconfined to the wheelchair to contact the means for receiving a bodyextremity.
 18. An apparatus as in claim 1 further comprising connectingmeans for temporarily connecting the means maintaining the means forreceiving a body extremity in a predetermined plane during movement to abed to enable the user confined to the bed to contact the means forreceiving a body extremity.
 19. An apparatus for working any one of aplurality of muscle groups in the human body the apparatus comprising aself-supporting base, a pair of upright parallel posts defining a plane,each post including top, middle and bottom portions, the bottom portionof each post being fixedly attached to the base, a horizontally disposedbar having two ends and extending between the middle portions of theposts, means for slidably mounting the two ends of the bar to the middleportions of th posts, and means for providing resistance to the movementof the bar when subjected to a force exerted by the human body withinthe plane such that movement of the bar is limited to less than the fullrange of motion of the body.
 20. An apparatus as in claim 19 furthercomprising a cross member having two ends, one end being fixedlyattached to the top portion of each of the posts.
 21. An apparatus as inclaim 20 wherein the means for slidably mounting the two ends of the barto the middle portions of the posts comprises cylindrically shapedsleeves, each sleeve including a hollow central portion through whichone of the posts passes.
 22. An apparatus as in claim 21 wherein themeans for providing resistance to movement comprises elastic andflexible tubing material.
 23. An apparatus as in claim 22 wherein themeans for providing resistance to movement is a pair of elastic cords intension having first and second ends and a middle portion, the first endof each cord being attached to the top portion of one of the posts, thesecond end of each cord being attached to the bottom portion of the samepost, and the middle portion of each cord being attached to the sleeveslidably mounted on the post to which that cord is attached.
 24. Anapparatus as in claim 19 wherein the base further comprises means forproperly positioning a user relative to the bar to allow the user tocontact and provide a force against the bar, the force resulting inslight movement of the bar.
 25. An apparatus as in claim 24 wherein themeans for properly positioning a user is adjustable relative to the bar.26. An apparatus as in claim 24 wherein the means for properlypositioning a user comprises a pair of planar members adjustablerelative to each other between a coplanar position and a noncoplanarposition.
 27. An exercise apparatus comprising: frame means; means forsupporting the frame means on a non-horizontal surface; means forreceiving a body extremity of a user, said means for receiving a bodyextremity receiving a directional force provided by the body extremity.means for maintaining the means for receiving a body extremity in apredefined plane during movement in a first direction and in a seconddirection, the second direction opposing that of the first direction,both directions being contained within the predefined plane; means forholding the means for maintaining at any one of a plurality of angularpositions, and means for providing resistance to movement in both thefirst direction and in the second direction upon application of theforce to the means for receiving a body extremity in either the firstdirection or the second direction, said force resulting in movement ofthe means for receiving a body extremity and such that the position ofthe means for receiving can be anthropometrically adjusted to suitdifferent users and accommodate working different muscle groups.
 28. Anapparatus as in claim 27 further comprising means for supporting a user,the means for supporting a user comprising: means for supporting auser's buttocks; means for supporting a user's back connected to themeans for supporting a user's buttocks; means for adjusting the angularposition of the means for supporting the user's back; means forsupporting the lumbar region of the user's back connected to the meansfor supporting a user's buttocks; means for supporting a user's legconnected to the means for supporting a user's buttocks; and means foradjusting the angular position of the means for supporting a user's leg.29. An apparatus as in claim 27 wherein the means for maintaining themeans for receiving a body extremity in a predefined plane duringmovement is further for limiting movement of the means for receiving abody extremity to movement in one dimension and wherein the means formaintaining the means for receiving a body extremity in a predefinedplane during movement comprises at least one sleeve attached to themeans for receiving a body extremity and a post upon which the sleeve isslidably mounted.
 30. An apparatus as in claim 29 wherein the sleeve iscylindrical in shape and includes a hollow central portion, the postupon which the sleeve is slidably mounted passing through the centralportion of the sleeve and wherein the post is disposed vertically toprovide a vertical range-of-motion.
 31. An apparatus as in claim 27wherein the means for pivoting the means for maintaining through anangular range-of-motion comprises means for pivoting the means formaintaining through an angular range-of-motion of at least forty-fivedegrees.
 32. An apparatus as in claim 27 further comprising means forproviding resistance to movement of the means for maintaining as it ismoved from one angular position to another angular position.
 33. Anapparatus as in claim 27 wherein the means for receiving a bodyextremity comprises at least one sling into which a body extremity maybe inserted.
 34. An apparatus as in claim 27 wherein the means forproviding resistance to movement comprises a length of elastic material.35. An apparatus as in claim 27 wherein the means for providingresistance to movement comprises a pneumatic resistance providingdevice.
 36. An apparatus as in claim 27 wherein the means for providingresistance to movement comprises a length of elastic material and apneumatic resistance providing device.
 37. An apparatus as in claim 27wherein the position of the means for receiving can be adjusted suchthat maximal loading of at least one of said muscle groups can occur atany one of several points along the range-of-motion of said musclegroup.
 38. An apparatus as in claim 27 further comprising means foradjusting the resting position of the means for receiving a bodyextremity.
 39. An apparatus for exercising a human extremity including aplurality of fingers and a palm, the apparatus comprising: means forreceiving the plurality of fingers; means for receiving the palm of theuser's hand; means for resisting the movement of the plurality offingers; first means for adjusting the position of the means forreceiving the palm in a first plane in relation to a first point inspace; second means for adjusting the position of the means forreceiving the palm in a second plane in relation to a first point inspace, the second plane being different than the first plane; thirdmeans for adjusting the position of the means for receiving the palm ina third plane in relation to a first point in space, the third planebeing different than the second plane; and means for locking theposition of the means for receiving the palm so that the position of themeans for receiving is anthropometrically adjusted to suit differentusers and accommodate working different muscles and the position of themeans for receiving the palm can be adjusted such that at least partialrange-of-motion exercises can be performed.
 40. An apparatus as definedin claim 39 wherein the first, second, and third means for adjusting theposition of the means for receiving the palm comprises: a post; meansfor attaching the post to an underlying surface; means for adjusting theposition of the means for receiving the palm along the length of thepost; means for adjusting the position of the means for receiving thepalm about the perimeter of the post; and means for adjusting theposition of the means for receiving the palm closer to and farther fromthe post.